Summary
An avalanche in the Lake Tahoe backcountry of California's Sierra Nevada mountains has resulted in the deaths of eight people, including two sisters, with one person still missing. Rescue teams continue to work under challenging weather conditions to recover the victims and have already rescued six other members of the 15-person ski group.
Key Facts
- An avalanche occurred near Castle Peak in the Sierra Nevada mountains, killing eight people.
- Two of the deceased were sisters, Caroline Sekar and Liz Clabaugh, part of a group of university friends who often skied together.
- Six members of the group were rescued, while one person remains missing.
- The avalanche was the deadliest recorded in modern California history.
- Hazardous weather conditions are making rescue and recovery operations difficult.
- The avalanche happened during the popular "ski week" holidays in California.
- Three guides from Blackbird Mountain Guides leading the ski group also died.
- The Nevada County Sheriff's Office is leading the recovery mission which could last into the weekend.
